Second Thematic Meeting on LEAN Methodology and Non-Destructive Testing in the Wood Industry

On 22 May 2025, the DRWO4.0 project held its second thematic meeting in the lively city of Rijeka, Croatia, focusing on the application of LEAN methodology and non-destructive testing (NDT) methods in the wood industry. The event gathered experts, industry partners, and stakeholders from across the Danube Region to share knowledge and strengthen capacities for the sector’s digital and green transition.

The meeting began with an insightful lecture on the Human-Centric Digital Twin concept — an innovative link between Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0 — highlighting the importance of placing people at the core of digital transformation and aligning technology with workforce and societal needs.

Participants then explored a detailed case study from MARLES, showcasing successful implementation of LEAN principles in wood processing and the tangible benefits of optimizing production workflows. The session also covered educational and training opportunities in LEAN methodology, underscoring lifelong learning as a key driver of sustainable and efficient business transformation.

The event’s highlight was the focus on advanced non-destructive testing methods for wood-based materials, where experts from University of Pécs Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology demonstrated cutting-edge technologies that enable precise, damage-free analysis. These innovations represent a crucial step forward in enhancing digital quality control and resource efficiency in wood manufacturing.